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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Loved by locals

Fun bar activities in Downtown Santa Monica

Made for those who need a competitive edge to their drinking and refuse to sit still while they enjoy a cocktail.

Based on 739 Opinions
+736
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Updated May 2026
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Small venue with an intimate stage hosts live band karaoke and soulful melodies. Vintage bar vibe combines with professional, classy atmosphere and inviting dance floor. Friendly crowds enjoy great music without pretension.

A professional and classy atmosphere stands out with a doorman and owner working the bar some nights. Friendly people and good music add to the experience.

High energy shows create a fun atmosphere with engaging staff. Karaoke nights add to the unique entertainment options, making it a lively spot for fun activities.

People are saying

"I loved the live music and the amazing atmosphere here."

"This bar has amazing live music and shows."

"I found the live music here to be really fun and energetic."

Good to know

1

Karaoke with a live band happens every Wednesday night.

2

Entry costs $10, which includes a drink minimum of two per person.

3

Live music performances occur on weekends and Tuesday nights.

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Illusion Magic Lounge image 1
Performing arts theater

Small theater offers an intimate setting with unobstructed views from every seat. The atmosphere feels cozy and friendly, making magic performances feel personal and immersive. Shows combine magic and comedy, appealing to both adults and kids in a relaxed lounge environment.

An enchanting spot with close-up magic performed around the bar by skilled magicians. Offers a mix of magic, comedy, and live shows alongside a place to drink and hang out.

Mind-bending illusions create a quirky and hilarious atmosphere. Staff keep things fun and efficient, making it easy to connect with groups.

People are saying

"I had so much fun, it was hilarious and mind-bending!"

"This place is so kid friendly, the shows are fun and entertaining."

"The bar here is enchanting, perfect for a night of magic."

Good to know

1

VIP tickets include a free drink and front-row seating.

2

Parking costs about $3.00 per hour, located half a block away.

3

The magic show lasts about 90 minutes and features multiple acts.

03
1212 Santa Monica image 1
New American restaurant

Large space with dog-friendly patio and live DJ music creates a loud, fun atmosphere that energizes the evening. Outdoor seating features fire pits enhancing the vibe. Music volume often challenges conversation but adds to the lively environment.

Gorgeous bar interiors create a striking atmosphere. Top-tier service comes from bartenders like Jaun, Hernan, Luciano, and Cameron.

Incredible atmosphere creates a lively and classy vibe. The place offers a fun night out with a touch of elegance.

People are saying

"The food here is flavorful, fresh, and delicious."

"The bar staff, especially Santi and Cameron, provide an amazing experience."

"The live music here really adds to the energetic vibe."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with half-price appetizers.

2

All-night happy hour is available on Mondays, offering great deals.

3

Reservations are recommended for special events like the Super Bowl.

04
LouLou Santa Monica image 1
French restaurant

Rooftop restaurant offers cool views of water and Ferris wheel with a club-like vibe created by a live DJ and percussionist. Atmosphere suits large groups and blends beachy elegance with lively energy.

Rooftop bar offers phenomenal drinks and a charming, relaxed setting. Outdoor lounge vibe pairs well with great entertainment during brunch.

Stepping inside feels like joining a celebration with an upbeat atmosphere. The spot works well for large groups and offers a fun twist on French cuisine, especially during brunch.

People are saying

"The food here was delicious and high quality."

"The staff made our celebration feel personal and special with fun activities."

"The bartender Enrique was super friendly and made exceptional drinks."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers great deals on food and drinks, making it worthwhile.

2

Expect long wait times during busy events, like Valentine's Day.

3

The restaurant turns into a lively party after 9 pm with dancing.

05
Britannia Pub image 1

Pub offers multiple seating areas including a backyard patio, balcony, and sidewalk patio, creating a spacious feel. Atmosphere mixes British and Philadelphia Eagles themes with loud music and a lively crowd during games. Features include pool tables, many TVs for sports, and a DJ energizing the space.

A true Merseyside family runs this British bar, creating a welcoming vibe with a rockstar doorman and attentive management. It plays Philadelphia Eagles games with game sound and a DJ hyping the crowd, making it a standout spot for sports fans.

A pool table with a beautiful and convenient design stands out for fun. The pub offers a great spot to chill, talk, and listen, creating a lively atmosphere for good times.

People are saying

"This bar is the perfect find for watching the Eagles game."

"The pub staff were really friendly and helpful."

"The pool table and karaoke are seriously fun activities."

Good to know

1

Happy Hour runs from 4 to 7 pm, Monday to Friday.

2

Karaoke night happens on weekends with no cover charge.

3

The pub offers $7 fish and chips during Happy Hour.

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Benihana - Santa Monica image 1
Japanese restaurant

Open hibachi-style setup offers an engaging dining experience with chefs performing theatrical grilling shows at each table. Dim lighting and cozy decor create a fun, lively atmosphere suited for date nights and family outings. A second-level bar adds to the venue's entertaining vibe and interactive energy.

Upstairs bar offers quick eats and good drinks during happy hour with a personable bartender who helps pass the time. The bar top provides a welcoming spot for dining and snacks with helpful staff.

Staff like Pablo, Joey, Tyler, and Ivan make the experience very fun and personable. Celebrations such as birthdays feel extra enjoyable with their lively service.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and full of flavor."

"The chefs here make the dining experience truly fun."

"Leo the bartender made my bar experience the best."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended to avoid long wait times, especially on weekends.

2

Happy hour runs from 4-6 PM with discounted drinks and appetizers.

3

The staff celebrates birthdays with a special song and treat.

07
Holey Moley Golf Club Santa Monica image 1

Miniature golf course features unique themed holes spread over several floors with a great bar and live magician entertainment. Atmosphere is loud and crowded, with karaoke music playing openly and tight spaces causing frequent bumping. The vibe suits energetic nights out rather than quiet, relaxed play.

Several floors host a great bar with friendly staff like Ryan and Sean who take good care of guests. The bar offers a relaxed vibe indoors and on the balcony, with reasonably priced drinks around $15 each.

Mini golf courses feature unique themes on every hole, making the game engaging at all levels. The atmosphere suits date nights, group outings, and team building with a caddy who ensures smooth play.

People are saying

"The mini golf here is amazing fun and super creative."

"The bar staff here is super friendly and attentive."

"Eric the magician's amazing tricks blew us away!"

Good to know

1

Events can cost over $1000 for limited time slots, so plan accordingly.

2

No kids are allowed after 8pm, so check age restrictions before visiting.

3

The venue lacks air conditioning, making it very hot during summer visits.

08
The Room Santa Monica image 1

Small downstairs bar and dance club with unique open layout and disco ball creates a communal vibe. Music focuses on hip hop and R&B, with DJs playing a mix of oldies and pop that keeps the dance floor lively but never overcrowded. Crowd tends to be diverse and welcoming, favoring good times over college scenes.

A cozy spot with a downstairs bar and dance club vibe offers good drinks and a place to sit at the bar. Karaoke happens here, adding to the lively atmosphere.

Very fun vibes fill the space with music that mixes hip-hop oldies and pop songs. The atmosphere keeps things light and enjoyable.

People are saying

"This nightclub's music is fire and keeps everyone dancing."

"The DJ was always killing it with nonstop bangers."

"The music here is always on point, playing fun pop songs."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 9 to 10:30 PM with discounted drinks.

2

Entry is free for all guests.

3

The DJ starts playing around 10 PM, creating a lively atmosphere.

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Two Bit Circus image 1
Video arcade

Digital-circus theme blends with spacious layout and varied arcade and VR games. Atmosphere mixes bright lighting with cool vibes suitable for both kids and adults. Bar area offers views of gaming action, supporting a lively but casual energy.

A full bar offers a wide range of drinks and lets you order food from nearby restaurants using QR codes. The bar area provides a clear view of the arcade, blending classic games and virtual reality with a lively atmosphere.

Several original arcade games and VR experiences offer fun for all ages. Story rooms add variety, though booking can be tricky. Games are well-maintained but a bit pricey.

People are saying

"I loved the virtual reality games and experimental experiences here."

"I had a blast playing games and enjoying drinks at this bar."

"You can play tons of fun games, from arcades to VR."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers great deals on drinks and snacks.

2

Thursdays are college nights with an extra $5 for students to play games.

3

Check their Instagram for updates on public events and special activities.

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Downtown, Santa Monica

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